Johnson Creek Dam

JOHNSON CREEK· Essex, Massachusetts· Built 1913· Concrete· 16 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Local Government

Key Takeaway

Johnson Creek Dam is classified as significant hazard in Massachusetts. It was completed in 1913 and is 113 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 16 ft (taller than 56.3% in MA)
Dam Length100 ft
Dam TypeConcrete
Max Storage220 acre-ft
Normal Storage55 acre-ft
Surface Area16 acres
Drainage Area5 sq mi
Year Completed1913 (113 years old)
NID IDMA00188

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: No
Last Inspection: May 9, 2017
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION AND RECREATION

Ownership

TOWN OF GROVELAND, HIGHWAY DEPARTMENT

Local Government

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Johnson Creek Dam?

Johnson Creek Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Johnson Creek Dam?

Johnson Creek Dam is owned by TOWN OF GROVELAND, HIGHWAY DEPARTMENT (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Johnson Creek Dam built?

Johnson Creek Dam was completed in 1913, making it 113 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.

What is the primary purpose of Johnson Creek Dam?

Johnson Creek Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Johnson Creek Dam?

Johnson Creek Dam has a dam height of 16 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.

When was Johnson Creek Dam last inspected?

Johnson Creek Dam was last inspected on May 9, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.